MJ Akbar Resigns Over #MeToo Row

New Delhi: MJ Akbar on Wednesday resigned from his post of Minister of State External Affairs.

He has been accused of sex harassment by multiple women.

“Since I have decided to seek justice in a court of law in my personal capacity, I deem it appropriate to step down from office and challenge false accusations levied against me, also in a personal capacity,” Akbar said in a statement.

His resignation has reportedly been accepted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The journalist-turned-politician is the first in the BJP-led government to quit in a growing #MeToo movement in India.

Two days ago, Akbar had sued one of his 20 accusers, Priya Ramani, for defamation, alleging a conspiracy to harm his goodwill and reputation.

Following Akbar’s resignation, Ramani said that she feels ‘vindicated’. “I am awaiting justice in court,” she added.

On Tuesday, Delhi’s Patiala House Court listed the matter of the defamation case filed by Akbar against Ramani for October 18.